Kudos to Jeff Codallo for recently completing the International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Instructor Course. This authorizes him to instruct and make presentations on International Humanitarian Law for the Red Cross.

On August 12, 1949, the four Geneva Conventions in their current form came into being. Now adopted by every nation, these laws place basic limits on how war is waged – protecting civilians, wounded and sick combatants, and prisoners of war. They are the cornerstone of international humanitarian law and are forever linked to the Red Cross. Want to learn more? Ask Jeff!

CBF is proud to announce Yajaira Arteaga has graduated with her Master’s degree in Administration from Barry University. Yajaira is the bank’s Director of Internal Sales and has been part of the CBF family for over 10 years. She has spent the last few years pursuing her formal education and we are very proud of her achievement.

Our latest testimonial ad featured Arnaldo Diaz, owner of Denny's Liquors in Key Largo. If you haven't been by Arnie's store, it is worth checking out. We asked him how he got his start and here is what he had to say:

“I used to visit the Keys regularly and during a trip twenty-two years ago, I found out Denny’s Liquors was for sale. I decided not to let the opportunity pass by so I purchased the property and moved from New York immediately. I’ve made the store my own and now we offer the biggest selection of liquor and wines in the Upper Keys. We have a huge wine chiller and a walk in humidor. Denny’s is the place to go if you want specialty items, cigars, hard to find liquors and mixers or interesting gifts.

I think it is important to do business with others in the Keys, and that is one thing I like about Community Bank. They buy from locals, especially when they are having events. I found the bank back in 1999 when I needed a home mortgage. Everything went so smoothly, I opened a personal account with them. Eventually I moved my business accounts there as well. They think about the little things, like running paperwork over to me so I don’t have to leave the store. I’ve dealt with all the banks in the Keys, and Community Bank is the only bank that has ever checked on me regularly. It’s great to have a relationship with them.”

You can reach Arnie at 305-451-2667 or stop by Denny's Liquors, MM100 Bayside.

Santa Claus made his annual visit to the Main Office lobby for cookies and photos. He was here to spread good cheer and fundraise money for the Kiwanis International’s Eliminate Project, which raises money to eliminate neonatal tetanus. We hope you catch a glimpse of Santa this weekend!